Radisson Resort Orlando Pools Together Fun & Affordability

The Radisson Resort Orlando – Celebration is situated on 20 acres of lush, tropical landscaping creating an oasis in the midst of the city. Upon arrival, I was impressed by their expansive lobby which was home to their Sports Lounge, Parkway Diner and Deli (where Pizza Hut, Starbucks and Krispy Kreme are available), Mandolin’s Restaurant, gift shop and large seating area with wireless internet.

The resort’s amenities impressed me even further as I discovered the pool pavilion, consisting of a large freeform pool with cascading waterfalls, two whirlpools and a 40' waterslide through a rocky grotto. This entire pool facility sprawls through the resort, complete with Cascades pool bar, turning the Orlando Radisson Resort into an island full of tropical potential. There’s also a kiddie pool area, as well as a smaller pool with heat option for older guests. The newly remodeled fitness center was also a highlight, as it had great views of the pool, fantastic new equipment and was of a nice size. Two lighted tennis courts and sand-based volleyball are available as well.

The rooms at Radisson Resort Orlando – Celebration are furnished with Sleep Number Beds, custom Italian-style case goods, 25’ color televisions, European-style duvets, granite and marble in the bathroom (floors, walls, and shower walls), and each room has a pool, courtyard or hotel surroundings view. The modern feel of the rooms was complimented by a high level of cleanliness, as low level of wear and tear by guests.

The Radisson Resort is a great choice for any Orlando vacationer, but is especially suited for families due to the expansive pool area and activities available.

Orlando's Floridays Resort Steeped in Luxury & Comfort

The Floridays Resort in Orlando is a fantastic, luxurious resort nestled in the Kissimmee corridor of Central Florida. The Mediterranean-styled condominium resort has a tropical feel throughout the complex, complimented by a lush tropical landscape and island colors and décor. From the moment you check-in at their elegant lobby, you will know Floridays is different from other Orlando Resorts.

The actual resort boasts a plethora of amenities. Their 22,000 square foot Welcome Center offers wireless internet, a large fitness center with TV’s, game room and children’s activities center. The expansive main pool is also located off of the Welcome Center and features a large pool area complete with playscape for kids, extra large whirlpool spa and therapy pool. There is also a sand area and pool bar to take advantage of in this area. Another smaller pool is located on the property, and it appeals to adults more so than the kid crowd. The second, smaller pool also offers a whirlpool spa and is surrounded by a pond with fountain features.

The two and three bedroom luxury condominiums offered at Orlando’s Floridays Resort are the epitome of elegance and comfort, and I was definitely impressed with the design, layout and upgraded appliances and media hardware, such as a 37 inch Flat Panel HD Plasma TV and DVD in each living room and 27 inch TV in each bedroom. Each room type (2 or 3 bedroom) is equipped with two spacious baths, with the master suite bath providing double sink vanities with granite countertops, a walk-in granite shower and Jacuzzi. The three bedroom unit features a king suite, queen room and double double room. The two bedroom unit features a king suite and a double double room. Other than the amount of rooms, the units are very similar and both are highlighted by a Modern Island décor that really makes one feel at home. Plus, each unit is equipped with a full laundry room with standard size washer and dryer and each has a balcony or patio for guest enjoyment.

I really felt at home at Floridays Resort and feel any Orlando visitor’s vacation would benefit from staying here.

Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa Orlando Sheds Light on Luxurious Living

The Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa in Orlando is an elegantly appointed property lavishing guests in superior accommodations featuring master retreats and luxurious furnishings. The property is a popular one, due to not only its villas, but its fine amenities too. The Lighthouse Key Resort and Spa has a 26,000 square foot Grand Clubhouse featuring a state-of-the-art, extra large fitness center equipped with televisions and with views of the pool area. There is also a 50 seat movie theater room, as well as a European-style spa for extra pampering, and a business center with computers and fax. Their pool area features a zero-entry design on their main, circular-designed pool, as well as a smaller lap pool and hot tub, all with views of Orange Lake. The Portside Pub and Beacon Deli frame the pool area, and are a convenient way to eat, drink and relax in the summer sun. There is also a pool table room, furnished with upscale pool tables and Mike Ditka memorabilia.

The resort offers 2, 3, or 4 bedroom villas, each lavishly appointed with West-Indies inspired décor, a 42’ inch HD TV in Great Room, with additional flat screen televisions in the bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and stylish cabinetry, as well as full size, fully equipped laundry rooms. The 2 bedroom unit has a master suite with inviting island décor, access to balcony/patio and master bath with beautiful granite countertops with double sinks, a whirlpool tub, walk-in shower and separate toilet area. The guest room is furnished with a trundle bed and x-box, with a spacious spare bath designed with granite and marble accents. The 3 bedroom unit has a more open layout with the additional guest room designed as the second master retreat, although it shares its master bath with the third, trundle bed room (some rooms have two twin beds.) The remainder of the unit is appointed in the same luxurious fashion as the 2 bedroom, including the baths.

The 4 bedroom unit is by far the most lavish, as it houses over 2,000 square feet of luxury. It also houses two complete master suites, each with complete master bath, each designed to be a bit more spacious and inviting. The additional layout elements include a trundle bed room and double queen room , which share a guest bath.

Orlando’s Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa is sure to make any Orlando visitor feel right at home and is a good choice for all.

Caribe Cove Resort Orlando an Escape Geared Towards Adults

The Caribe Cove Resort in Orlando, Florida opened last September with the idea of catering more to the adult crowd, rather than the kid scene. The idea has worked rather well, and in doing so, they have created a peaceful retreat where one can kick back, relax, and enjoy the comforts of a home away from home.

The featured amenities at the resort include a large pool with infinity edge overlooking a lily pond, hot tub, steam room, sauna, small fitness center, serene sundeck, Sundry shop, in-room massages, gift shop and there is a pool bar and snack shop coming in the near future. As mentioned earlier, because this resort does cater more to an adult crowd, there are no kid’s amenities such as a kiddie pool, playground area or game room.

The Orlando Caribe Cove Resort offers 2 or 3 bedroom villas, each with a warm and inviting tropical décor that makes one feel right at home. The two bedroom villa features a Master Suite with King bed and patio access, flat screen television and Master Bath with Jacuzzi tub, walk-in shower, dual sinks and marble tiled floors. The Suite is elegant and spacious, and the bathroom is as well. The guest room is furnished with two twin beds, a flat screen television and the guest bath is nicely deigned and appointed. The villa also boasts a modern kitchen with granite countertops, a stylish dining area and comfortable living area complete with queen-size sofa sleeper. There is also a full size laundry room with washer and dryer.

The 3 bedroom villa is similar to the 2 bedroom, but of course, it is 200 square feet bigger and is equipped with an additional bedroom furnished with a queen bed. The style and comfort level remains the same, but the Master Suite is large as is the Master bath, and the queen room shares a spacious bath, similar to the Master Suite bath, with the additional guest room featuring two twin beds. All rooms boast a flat screen television.

Orlando's Bahama Bay Resort a Tropical Oasis for Visitors

The Bahama Bay Resort in Orlando is a nicely appointed property built to feel like a tropical island in the midst of Central Florida. The 70 acre resort boasts a plethora of amenities, including a computer station, game room, a full service pool and restaurant, marketplace with sundry items, buffet breakfast, nice size fitness center and 4 pools for your enjoyment.

The four pools on property offer something for everyone. There are two large pools located at the clubhouse and main lobby equipped with two hot tubs, respectively, as well as a kiddie pool area with mushroom water feature, and an additional pool is available for guests’ convenience. The kiddie pool area also features a playground. The Clubhouse pool is a really nice asset, as it has a sandy area and view of Lake Davenport, as well as a dock that walks out to the lake where one can sit and enjoy the view or you can grab some fishing poles, free of charge, from the Clubhouse. There is also a pool side bar and snack area that is very large located near the Clubhouse pool.

The 2 and 3 bedroom units at Orlando’s Bahama Bay Resort all offer either a pool or lake view. The 2 bedroom unit features a master suite with a nice size, basic master bath with a second bedroom equipped with two twin beds, with access to a smaller guest bath. They also have a fully equipped kitchen, as well as a living room with sofa sleeper, screened in patio and DVD Player. The Master Suite can also access the patio, and the entire unit is done in a Tropical décor. The 3 bedroom units are similar to the 2 bedroom units in design, but offer more space, including high ceilings. The Master Suite bathroom in the 3 bedroom unit features a walk-in shower, and the additional bedroom features two more twin beds.

The Bahama Bay Resort is a great choice for any Orlando Traveler.

SunLake Resort Orlando Great for Groups and Families

The SunLake Resort in Orlando, Florida is a large property located only 1 mile from Disney World. The resort offers 2 and 3 bedroom villas complete with fully furnished kitchen, full size washer and dryer, linens and towels and flat panel television in the living room. The two bedroom villa I toured had an art-deco décor, with additional Disney-inspired wall designs planned. The master suite was cozy and comfortable and was equipped with a master bath featuring a walk-in shower with granite flooring and side walls. Plus, there was a balcony accessible from the master suite as well as the living room. The living room was simple in design and had a very modern feel. The extra bedroom hosted two twin beds, perfect for small children. There was also a large laundry room with washer and dryer for guest convenience.

The amenities at Orlando’ SunLake Resort are located at their Clubhouse, for the most part. The Clubhouse is set to be renovated in the near future, but for now, it features an averaged sized swimming pool with hot tub, small fitness center, wireless internet and pool table. There are also tennis courts on property.

The SunLake Resort is a great choice for large families or visitors on a budget.

Regal Palms Resort Orlando a Family-Friendly Choice for Visitors

The Regal Palms Resort in Orlando is a sprawling property offering both private pool homes and townhomes. Located in the quiet Davenport area, the resort offers plenty of on-site amenities while maintaining a close distance to all of Orlando’s exciting entertainment.

Upon arrival at Regal Palms, I found a spacious and nicely appointed Clubhouse equipped with business center, free Wi-Fi internet, an extra large arcade for the kids, and the Palms Bar and Grill (open for breakfast, lunch, dinner). A luxurious spa and large fitness center with sauna and steam room are also available, but the best way to relax is at their lush, tropical swimming pavilion. The area is landscaped beautifully and is equipped with two large pools complete with water slide, lazy river and zero entry pool for little ones. Plus, there is an additional playground area for kids to enjoy as well. The recreational amenities really made this resort for my family and me.

The 4 bedroom townhomes at Orlando’s Regal Palms Resort are located very near to the Clubhouse for guest convenience and have an exterior design of Spanish Influence. The Townhome features a fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, cozy living room and plenty of room to sleep all of your guests. The case goods and décor of the Regal Palms resort are basic, but provide the necessary comfort level desired for vacationers. The layout provides plenty of privacy, with a Master Suite, queen room, and two rooms featuring twin beds, with an additional sleeper sofa. The patio/balcony area is also a nice touch, with access available from the living area and Master Suite.

The 4 bedroom pool homes available are a great choice for large groups and feature an in-ground pool, all the amenities of the townhomes, with a more spacious master suite and master bath. These homes offer even more privacy than the townhomes, and allow guest to feel right at home even when they’re not.

Orlando's Galleria Palms Hotel offers Affordable Luxury

The Galleria Palms Hotel in Orlando (previously Meridian Palms Hotel) is a stylish hotel with a warm Floridian exterior that is replaced by a modern interior that is charmingly simple yet comfortable and inviting. Upon arrival at the hotel, I was pleasantly surprised by the spacious, upscale accommodations I found myself in. The double queen room in which I stayed was furnished with new, sleekly designed case goods, a 32’ inch Flat screen television, pillowtop mattresses, and was appointed with a nice-sized bathroom that featured granite countertops, a Rainmaker showerhead and complimentary Bath & Body Works toiletries. The beds at the Galleria were amazingly comfortable, something I find very important. The hotel made my stay even more convenient by providing a microwave and refrigerator in room, as well as wireless internet.

The Orlando Galleria Palms Hotel also featured an outdoor pool, which had changing night lights and was open at least until midnight (sometimes later) which was nice. They also have a free shuttle to theme parks for guests, as well as a breakfast bar (which has a minimal charge) so guests can wake-up, fill up and shuttle to Orlando’s great attractions.

The centralized location, upgraded rooms at an affordable rate and level of comfort at the Galleria Palms are reasons why I would recommend this property for business travelers and theme park seekers. It really is a great property that is easy on the budget yet luxurious too.

Mona Lisa Suite Hotel Orlando Framed in Artistic Expression that Leaves an Impression

The Mona Lisa Suite Hotel in Orlando, Florida is an impressive property located near the town of Celebration. The neoclassical, European design of the property is complimented with an artistic style apparent by the giant rendition of the Mona Lisa in their lobby and the recreation of other classic paintings found throughout the complex. The art, combined with their art-deco design creates an upscale, modern resort perfect for adults vacationing in America’s kid-friendly capitol.

The all suite hotel has plenty of amenities for its guests, including an elegant Bistro serving breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as an upscale restaurant, The Galerie, which has an excellent ambiance and nice views of their spectacular 360 degree pool. The pool is circular in design with an island located in the center, where trees and lush landscaping create a truly incredible feel. A zero-entry area is also featured at the pool, a feature more and more resorts consider a must. The hotel also has a full security staff, valet parking, Wireless internet and room service for your peace of mind and convenience.

Accommodations at Orlando’s Mona Lisa Suite Hotel are elegant and feature a modern décor. The one and two bedroom suites all have a balcony with pool or landscape view, flat panel televisions in the living room and bedrooms, luxurious Egyptian cotton linens, leather furniture, iPod stereo tower and L’Occitane en Provence toiletries. The master suite bath features a walk-in shower with separate tub and a modern vibe creating an even more spacious feel.

The Mona Lisa Suite Hotel is a luxuriously appointed property perfect for couples and adults vacationing in the Orlando area.

Hughes Brothers Branson Show a Family Affair

The Hughes Brothers Show in Branson follows the Branson creed of making entertaining a family-wide experience. The show is comprised of five talented brothers, and also features their children and wives. It really is a homegrown, family-based experience highlighting not only the brother’s harmonious voices but the musical talent of their children, which all together there are 24 of and counting! The Hughes Brothers are the world’s largest performing family, and this idea of family resonates throughout the show.

The great thing about the Hughes Brothers Show is the variety of styles. The show starts with a little bit of country, including a rousing rendition of “Born Country” by Alabama. Then there is a bit of 50’s Doo-Wop when the boys sing “For the Longest Time,” which was a harmonious treat for the ears. One of my favorite segments featured Adam playing the Spanish guitar, which was brilliantly played and provided an interesting note of variety to the show.

I think the most unbelievable moment of the show was when the five brothers bring out all of their children. It starts with 6 children, then 4, then 3 and then, amazingly enough, another 11 children parade out, and the entire audience was in awe! But, the awe-inspiring amount of children was nothing compared to the awe created by their charismatic performances and talent. One of my favorite Kid segments was a musical number, where 7 children play the fiddle perfectly. I was amazed at the way these little hands made that fiddle sound! The little boys also sing “Don’t Let your Babies grow up to be Cowboys,” which was adorable.

There is also a Broadway portion of the show in which Andy sings “Children of Israel,” from Joseph’s Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. His tenor voice sings the tune perfectly and I was moved during the performance.

Branson’s Hughes Brothers Show is a good choice for guests of any age, as the audience was filled with young adults, seniors, and children and the show featured something for every group!

Orlando’s Magical Midway a Modern Twist on the Classic Midway

Orlando's Magical Midway provides an affordable break to any jam-packed tourist schedule. Conveniently located on International Drive, Magical Midway is just a stop away from many other attractions. The two full-sized wooden go-cart tracks are a big draw as there are few other wooden tracks in Orlando. "The Avalanche" offers a big hill that overpasses bumper boats that lie beneath. "The Alpine" intertwines itself with "The Avalanche" and offers some challenging but exhilarating twists and turns.

In addition to the bumper boats, Magical Midway in Orlando also boasts bumper cars, a Space Blast (a shot-tower that gives the rider an incredible view of Orlando), and an extremely unique ride called The Tornado (imagine an airborne Tilt-A-Whirl). The midway rides and go-cart tracks are also accompanied by an indoor arcade and a number of other unique rides that must be separately paid for. The Kid Trampoline allows any child under 80 lbs to safely attempt aerial acrobatics for just $10 while The Star Flyer Super Swings are easily one of the most leisurely and exhilarating rides in Orlando, offering a breezy but very high-flying version of the classic midway swings. A dare-devil must, The Slingshot, is also hosted at Magical Midway.

Tips: The indoor arcade runs on tokens and thus costs extra. Food and drinks are located outside the main building in a separate gift shop.

Fun Spot Action Park in Orlando Home of Go-Carts and Games Galore

Fun Spot Action Park in Orlando is one of two top-notch Fun Spot go-cart and arcade parks in the Orlando area. However, Fun Spot's Action Park on International Drive boasts the original four concrete go-cart tracks, Ferris wheel, and multi-level indoor arcade. Getting into the fun at Fun Spot is easy as parking and admission are both free. Wrist bands can be bought for the use of go-cart tracks.

The rides at Fun Spot are one of a kind as the go-cart tracks overlap and wind around each other. From "Commander" that is a good beginner's track to "Thrasher" which is comprised of many sharp turns, every go-cart possibility is met at Fun Spot. Likewise, to complete the speed demon fantasy, helmets and goggles are available upon request at each track. Fun Spot is not a park that limits itself to the adolescent thrill seekers. The park is full of rides for all ages, separated by height. Kid Spot hosts 7 pre-school friendly rides while "Cadet", a smaller go-cart track, is a step up from the Kid Spot but still allows very small children enjoy the thrill of driving in a safe environment.

Orlando’s Fun Spot Action Park also contains other common fair rides such as bumper boats and bumper cars, and the "Salamander Scrambler" and the "Paratrooper". Likewise, familiar midway games with big prizes can be played for a few extra dollars. Inside at the "Winner's Circle" Arcade are over 100 arcade games on two levels. The upper level contains Playstation, Xbox, and GameCube games, plus other typical arcade games all ready to play for free.

Tips: Food is available inside and outside but soft drinks are unlimited and free and can be found in an outdoor pavilion. Also, in the soft drink pavilion are forms for numerous prize drawings and giveaways Fun Spot is hosting throughout the rest of 2008 to celebrate their tenth anniversary.

Branson's Shoji Tabuchi Shows his Talent during Performance

After attending the Shoji Tabuchi Show in Branson, all I can say is “Wow! Shoji can really play that fiddle!” From the first chord to the last, I was amazed by his mastery of the fiddle and how beautifully he performed. The production itself was also over-the-top, with pyrotechnics, costume changes, stage sets and enough variety that I was entertained from beginning to end.

First, though, something does need to be said about the attention to detail found inside Shoji’s Theater. The bathrooms are legendary, as the men’s room has a pool table, and the women’s has a Victorian garden-style theme that is truly beautiful. Now, the show itself features country, like “Cotton Eyed Joe,” but also features classics like “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” which was beautiful on the violin, and even delves into ‘50’s rock with an equally entertaining version of “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” During the 50’s segment, there is a full-out diner scene complete with a motorcycle that drives on stage. Then, there is a Broadway segment featuring a very nicely designed set featuring lights and posters, reminiscent of Broadway’s theater district. Here, too, Shoji plays instrumental versions of hits like “I Could’ve Danced All Night” and other songs from shows like Oklahoma and Mary Poppins are featured, complete with dancers, singers and flying performers!

There are many other styles featured in the show, including Hawaiian music, a Polka number, Gospel songs and even a special Christmas segment that gives visitors a special taste of what the Shoji Tabuchi Christmas Show is like. With so much happening during Branson’s Shoji Tabuchi show, you’ll have to attend the production to see for yourself what else happens!

Wet ‘N Wild in Orlando a Wild Ride of a Water Park

A day at Orlando's Wet 'N Wild is an intense refresher from the Florida heat, which is always warm enough for the cool waters to be just right so get there early and don't fear the sun being behind the clouds. The park opens at 9 and the lines are significantly shorter in the early hours. Parking is across the street and costs $9 per car and $10 per RV. However, any hotel located on or near International Drive is more than likely within a suitable walking distance from the park.

In the park there are many areas to set up camp for the day with every option from tables or lawn chairs to sand, sun, or shade. Many hours can be spent at this park riding rides or just relaxing so food and water need to be considered. There are many food options throughout the park including Bubba's BBQ, Manny's Pizza, and George's Famous Ice Cream. Coolers are allowed, so packing a lunch is a smart option.

The rides at Wet 'N Wild in Orlando are high in intensity and thrills. The much advertised newest ride at Wet 'N Wild, Disco H20, lives up to its hype and beyond. The first drop of the ride had me double checking my grip on the tube. Many similar rides throughout the park take the rider through dark tunnels with big drops, fast turns, and splash landings. Most rides accommodate 2-4 riders, while rides such as Mach 5 (which takes riders down its slides headfirst on mats) and Bomb Bay (one of two six-story speed slides), offer excitement for the individual. The Kids' Park offers the same thrills as the rest of the park in miniature form for all those guests under forty-two inches tall, including a miniature Surf Lagoon and Lazy River.

Tips: Lockers are available for valuables for $5 (plus a $2 deposit). Tubes for the Surf Lagoon and Lazy River must be rented. There is no limit to the number of times the many rides at Wet 'N Wild can be enjoyed, so a minimum three hour stay should be considered- if you can pull yourself away that quickly.

The Welk Resort in Branson Great Choice For Families

The Welk Resort in Branson, Missouri is in a secluded yet convenient location and offers the full list of resort amenities guest desire. Upon my arrival at the sprawling property, I noticed the attention to landscaping and design layout of the property, which created an oasis-effect right in the midst of Branson.

The Welk Resort offers two places to stay in Branson: their hotel and their lodges. The hotel rooms featured are double queen rooms with a modern floral décor. The rooms I visited were superbly clean, had nice views of the landscaped resort, and were stocked with standard amenities like table with chairs, coffee pot, & ’27 television. The bathrooms did have an oversized feel to them, which was highlighted with a curved shower rod and tiled floors. Plus, the vanity/sink area was extra large and provided plenty of space. The hotel also featured a small game room, guest laundry facility and pool area, which is equipped with a playground area for the kids, a hot tub for adults and you can even order food from the pool area and have it delivered by concierge. There is also a mini-golf course located on site, which is free to guests.

The Welk Resort is a good choice for families, seniors and couples.

SIX a Number One Branson Show

New to the Branson Scene, SIX is an energetic, comedy & music filled show that creates its own magic formula for success. Unlike other Branson shows, SIX doesn’t use any background dancers, singers or band. At SIX, the six Knudsen brothers are the entire show, and their talent carries the show from beginning to end.

When I watched the SIX show in Branson, the house was packed, and SIX fed off of their energy. From the first upbeat of “On Broadway” to the last note of “Glory Glory Hallelujah,” SIX harmonized their way through musical genres, including the California grooves of The Beach Boys, the smooth sounds of the Motown era, and classics from the heyday of rock. A cappella is a style SIX has mastered, but even more astounding is the mastery of instrumental sounds, including drums, bass and back beats they have perfected. As I mentioned earlier, there is no band. ALL of the sounds you hear are produced straight from the mouths of these six brothers, which is truly amazing to see!

Branson’s SIX also features comedy by the brothers, who believe it or not, are actually funny! I found myself laughing out loud at some of their antics, and I was quite surprised by the real chemistry the six brothers demonstrated. You can tell they’ve been performers for a long time because their performance was solid entertainment. The show is very fast-paced and features an array of songs, but my favorite, and it seems the crowd’s favorite too, were the Motown doo-wop songs, which included “Heard it Through the Grapevine” and “My Girl.” Their version of “Rockin’ Robin” was also stellar, and their production of “What a Wonderful World” treats guests to both the Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong version, with Armstrong’s voice reproduced quite well.

This show is a crowd pleaser, apparent from the masses in attendance. It is a perfect pick for all ages, and is a guaranteed good choice.

Branson's Broadway Brings New York Glitz to Country Music Capital

Branson is known for its country music scene, but there are many other shows in the area catering to different tastes. Broadway in Branson, MO is one of those shows, and it highlights all of Broadway’s most famous productions. The show began in a fast-paced and energetic fashion, opening with “So Glad You Made It,” and the energy level continued throughout the show. With very few transitions or interludes, the stage was constantly filled with singing, dancing or both!

I was seated 12th row center, where I was pleasantly surprised by my great view of the stage, and throughout the entire performance, I felt like I was in the midst of a tried and true Branson production. The performers at Broadway really know what they are doing, and the two stars of the Show, Gene and Darbie, have powerhouse, operatic type voices that really carry the Broadway songs they perform. Broadway also veers away from the “Branson Formula,” and they do not try to mix in comedy or gospel. Instead, they stick to what they know, and in doing so, create a production audiences continue to rave over. While I watched the show, every member of the audience was engaged and during intermission everyone was talking about how much they enjoyed the show so far.

With more than 15 Broadway productions featured, Branson’s Broadway captured my attention best during their performances of “Cabaret,” “Chorus Line,” & “Chicago.” The “Cabaret” segment featured an elaborate stage, flashy costumes and some tongue-in-cheek songs like “Don’t Tell Mama.” “Chicago” was entertaining due to its songs and showmanship, including a Jail scene featuring “Cell Block Tango (He Had It Coming)”. “Chorus Line” lit up the stage with a Cityscape backdrop, leg kicks and plenty of Glitz.

Tips: The parking lot is a sloping hill, so drop off older patrons at the door so they won’t have to walk the steep incline.

Orlando’s Ripley’s Believe It or Not a Real Treasure

While Florida is the hot spot for summer fun, it is also quite simply the hot spot for soaring temperatures. While most theme parks and attractions are outdoors (and charging four dollars for a bottle of water) Orlando’s Ripley's Believe It Or Not! quickly appeals as an air-conditioned break from the norm, whether it is mid-day to beat the heat or even late at night (Ripley's is open until 1 AM). Adding to this initial perk, it should be noted that Ripley’s also boasts some of the most affordable ticket prices in Orlando.

Upon entering Ripley’s “Odditorium” you will be urged to try everything out and the hands on activities will make you laugh throughout the tour. Beware, a mirror in which the visitor is encouraged to do tongue-tricks is later revealed to be a two-way mirror. Dinosaur bones and eggs, a to-scale Rolls-Royce made of matchsticks, and even shrunken heads represent the variety of interests Ripley’s appeals to. All of the artifacts go beyond their humble circus beginnings and into a wondrous history lesson about Robert Ripley’s anthropological findings around the world.

In just over an hour (the pace is set by the visitor, one could walk through in about 45 minutes to upwards of 2 hours) I came out knowledgeable and laughing. Just like his early findings, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! in Orlando was affordable, great for the whole family, and a treasure in the midst of the ordinary.

Tips: Do take note before entering that the only restroom is located at the very beginning or the very end of the tour. Photography is allowed so bring along a camera or buy one at the ticket counter.